liability waiver

[mas3372]

Hello,

Me again. I did a search and found little results on liability waivers. I will have insurance but am looking to minimize claims. I was thinking about having all customers sign a liablity waiver that would prevent them from claims due to water damage, shrubery death, water seepage, loose siding, etc.

Does anyone use such a waiver and if so it is beneficail.

Does a waiver scare people off from using a powerwashing service.

thanks, Mike

 

[north coast]

Sounds like you could do everything just short of torching the place and then walk away.

 

[Larry B]

Contrary to the above post.
You should mention some problems in your bid. I will look at the property and make notes of any problems and then discuss them with the owner. If you see an area where something wrong may happen POINT IT OUT. This will lessen the chance of it being a problem later. Remember that nothing is iron clad but disclosure means you at least told them before you started work.

 

[PressurePros]

Disclaimers are nice to read and as Larry mentioned make people aware of potential problems but reailty and what's in print may be two different things. If you kill a plant, you're responsible for it. You replace it. You can have a disclaimer saying this may occur or that may occur but in court it comes down to liability. If Joe Schmoe can prove that you caused measurable damage to his property, you or you're insurance company are going to have to foot the bill. I understand Eric's train of thought. For how many things is someone going to stand there and say "Listen, it's not my fault" and still call himself a responsible business person?

 

[mas3372]

good points here and this is what I was thinking. I was advised by a friend in a landscaping business to have waivers signed. I then did some thinking. Either way, liability is on me. It always comes down to the better lawyer. If I am just starting out or even when established I don't want a history of fighting customers because this will travel fast. My best bet I would think is to advise them of such adverse situations and if one arises, take care of it myself. Replace the plant, shingle, screen etc. If it is a costly repair then perhaps let the INS. company handle it. I hope to never run into any of this, but I want to be prepared. Thanks. Mike

 

[wgasa]

waiver

"Not resposible for water and or chemical intrusion or any damage resulting from such intrusion.[not foolproof but it shows intent]a small feild next to the accept terms of bid or estimate form signature line.

 

[mas3372]

good thinking wgusa. I think I will do this. If anything, it warns them of possibilities and may deter them from wanting to file a claim.